The instrumentation on a process plant represents a significant capital investment, and the importance of careful handling on site and the exactitude of the installation cannot e overstressed. Correct installation is also important to ensure long term reliability and to obtain the best results instruments that are capable of higher-order accuracies because of advances in technology. Quality control of the completed work is also an important function.

Installation should be carried out using the best engineering practices by skilled personnel who are fully acquainted with the safety requirements and regulations governing a plant site. Prior to commencement of the work for a specific project, installation design details should be made available, which define the scope of work and the extent of material supply and which give detailed installation information related to location, fixing, piping and wiring. When instruments are received on a job site, it is of the utmost importance that they are unpacked with care, examined for superficial damage, and then placed in a secure store, which should be free from dust and suitably heated.